As the leaves change and temperatures drop, it’s the perfect time to get your home ready for the autumn season. Here’s a simple guide to ensure your home stays cosy, energy-efficient, and well-maintained this Autumn.
1. Prepare Your Heating System
Before the cooler weather really sets in, its important to ensure your heating system is in good working order,
you can do this by ensuring:
- Your heating system is running efficiently, book a service to do this.
- Your filters in your heat pump are cleaned or replaced.
- Your fireplace and chimney are safe before lighting the first fire by checking them.
2. Seal Up Drafts
To ensure your home is prepared for the cooler months ahead, sealing up any drafts is key:
- Check windows and doors for drafts and apply weatherstripping or caulk if needed.
- Use draft stoppers at the bottom of doors to keep warm air in.
- Consider adding heavier curtains for insulation.
3. Clean Gutters & Downspouts
Ensuring that your gutters and downspouts are in good working order is important leading into the wetter months to ensure you don’t end up with any water getting into places you don’t want it. This can be prevented by:
- Removing fallen leaves and debris to prevent blockages.
- Checking for leaks and ensure downspouts direct water away from your home.
4. Protect Your Outdoor Spaces
As the weather starts to change and get cooler it’s best to protect your outdoor spaces by:
- Storing or covering outdoor furniture to prevent weather damage.
- Draining and storing garden hoses and shutting off exterior water taps.
- Cleaning and inspecting walkways for cracks or hazards before icy weather sets in.
5. Get Your Home Cosy
Making your home cosy in the cooler months always helps to make a home feel warmer, you can do this by:
- Swapping out lightweight bedding for warmer doonas and blankets.
- Adding seasonal decor with warm colours and soft textures.
- Stocking up on candles or LED lights to create a cozy ambiance.
6. Check Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Making sure your smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors are in good working order is vital leading into the cooler months:
- Replace batteries and test all alarms to ensure they’re functioning.
- With increased use of heating systems, ensure your home is protected.
7. Prepare for Shorter Days
As we move into the Autumn the days begin to get shorter, being prepared for this is vital not just for a welcoming home but also for safety.
- Clean and replace outdoor lighting bulbs for safety.
- Add timers or smart lights to create a welcoming home even as the sun sets earlier.
By taking these steps, you can enjoy a warm, safe, and inviting home throughout the autumn season.
